Subsurface imaged labels and tags using thermal transfer ribbon carrier as overlaminate and method of manufacture

Abstract

A subsurfaced imaged label using a PET thermal transfer ribbon carrier as an overlaminate. A reverse image is printed onto a waste medium. The waste medium and inked reverse image are stripped away. The desired image remains on the PET carrier of the thermal transfer ink ribbon. A pressure sensitive adhesive substrate is laminated onto the carrier on the same side as the ink image. Label stock and another layer of pressure sensitive adhesive is then layered on the ink side of the PET carrier. When the label is applied to a surface the ink image is under the PET carrier and is protected by the PET carrier.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60 / 504,423 entitled Subsurface Imaged labels and Tags Using Thermal Transfer Ribbon Carrier as Overlaminate and Method of Manufacture, filed Sep. 18, 2003.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to a durable thermal transfer image. Specifically, it relates to a subsurface imaged thermal transfer label and a method of manufacture.[0004]2. Brief Description of Related Art[0005]Thermal transfer printing traditionally involves variably boding ink from a thin PET carrier (ink, carrier, and release coating comprising a ribbon) to a substrate. A positive image is printed on a substrate. The PET carrier is then stripped away from the substrate, removing the ink from all areas that have not been bonded via heat and pressure. While the printed image is fairly durable, it is subject to attack from abrasion and chemicals, particularly solvents similar to the ones used ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a new method of protecting printed images from challenging application conditions such as chemical exposure and abrasion. The method involves using a thermal transfer ribbon to transfer an image onto a waste substrate, which is then stripped away leaving the desired image on a PET carrier. The carrier is then laminated onto a pressure sensitive adhesive substrate, creating a durable label. The image is protected from environmental attack by the thin PET film used as the carrier for the thermal transfer ink. This method is simple and low cost, providing an inexpensive label for use in challenging conditions. The invention also creates a new use of the thermal transfer ribbon and reduces the need for expensive laminating films. The finished label can then be cut in some manner, such as by an automated cutter.

Problems solved by technology

While the printed image is fairly durable, it is subject to attach from abrasion and chemicals, particularly solvents similar to the ones used to coat the ink on the PET carrier.

Durable thermal transfer printing applications typically require an expensive, resin based ribbon to achieve good levels of durability.

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